Plastic flow localization in bulk tungsten with ultrafine microstructure

Abstract

Shear localization is demonstrated in bulk tungsten (W) of commercial purity under dynamic uniaxial compression. Microstructure refinement via severe plastic deformation was the strategy used to induce this unusual deformation mode for W. The ultrafine microstructure achieved in bcc materials leads to elevated strength and ductility, as well as reduced strain hardening and strain rate hardening, thus enhancing the propensity for adiabatic plastic flow localization.